1. Heat the water to 110 F or 45 C. 2. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar and yeast. Stir gently, cover with clean kitchen towel and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until the mixture become foamy. 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir until the dough begins to come together. 4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. (Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes). 5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat the surface with oil. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. 6. Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Shape the dough into a long loaf or divide it into two small loaves. 7. Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 8. Cover the shaped dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for 40 min. 9. Preheat oven to 400 F(200 C). 10. Optionally: brush the top of loaf with olive oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds. 11. Use a sharp knife to make 2-3 shallow slashes diagonally across the top of the loaf. 12. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. 13. Allow the bread to cool before slicing.